WHY

As Ellen passed through Macy's department store, she noticed a young woman crying near the children's section. From a distance, she observed the woman and wondered why she was crying. Cautiously she approached the young woman and asked, "Mam, are you okay?"

“Yes, I'm fine.” She replied

“Then, why are you crying?” Ellen asked.

The young woman responded, “Something valuable was stolen from me, and what saddens me is that a dear friend stole the item.”

“How do you know that?” Ellen asked.

“I know because I gave that person complete access to my home while I am present and when I am not. The difficulty is that I don't have any evidence, so I can't confront them, and I'm not sure when the item was taken." She replied.

“Is it an item that you can replace?” Ellen asked. “Yes, it is.” She replied.

“Is this an item you can replace ten times over?" Ellen asked. “Yes.” she responded.

“Is this something you can replace twenty times over?” Ellen asked. “Yes, why are you asking me this question?” She replied.

“If you can replace the item twenty times over, then you are a blessed woman.” Ellen stated.

“Honestly, I’m hurt and angry. I just can’t believe that this person would steal from me.” She said.

“Then you need to make a decision. You can choose between destruction or blessings.” Ellen said.

“What do you mean, destruction or blessings?” She asked.

“You can choose destruction and end the friendship or blessings and watch God reward your good works. Understand that the person who stole from you will always feel uncomfortable in your presence. They stole from you, and the thief will steal from them too. So, rather than focusing on the individual, concentrate on God, and you will discover the serenity and forgiveness you need to move forward.” Ellen said.

Then she said, “I know God, but my relationship is distant.”

“I understand. My relationship with God has been both distant and near, and I have lost and endured much grief. I've learned to trust God in all aspects of my life, regardless of how bad the circumstance is.” Ellen said.

As we talked, the tears that flowed, began to dissipate, and I could see the Lord's presence rest on her.

“Today, has been especially difficult, because the item that was stolen was my heart.” She said.

“What do you mean?” Ellen asked.

“I will no longer be able to trust that person because when they took the item, they also stole the place in my heart where I held them.” She said.

With an empathy heart Ellen said, “Despite our failings, God maintains us in His heart—it is imperative that we seek guidance on how to interact with individuals who disappoint us, as he does not forsake us.”

For a brief moment, no words were spoken. As Ellen stood there observing the young woman, the woman began to weep.

“Why are you crying?” Ellen asked.

“God knew, I needed to be here at this particular moment. In my heart I wanted to confront the person and ask why. I know I can't alter the past, but I can now move on knowing God has already taken care of it. So, the tears aren't sad tears they're tears of hope for a brighter tomorrow.” She said.

Ellen smiled and continued, "Honestly, when I first saw you, I didn't want to stop, but my Spirit told me I had to. God frequently tests our obedience, and today was my test. God wanted to see if I would venture out beyond my comfort zone and help someone in need.”

The young woman then asked, “If you are comfortable with this, may I give you a hug?”

“Yes.” Ellen responded.

As we embraced, she said, “I’m thankful God revealed Himself to me through you. I’m grateful you followed your heart and stopped.”

God see all and knows all, so don’t allow the enemy to kill your dreams, steal your life or destroy you spiritually. Even when it doesn’t look like it, God is always in the mist. As, a thief does not realize that their blessings have been suspended and that they will reap what they have sowed. When this type of act is committed, it has the potential to destroy relationships. Sometime in life, it’s important to look at the situation from all angles and make an informed decision on how to move forward. It’s critical to learn how to pause, pray, and wait for an answer. When we move with damaged emotions the outcome will not be beneficial to you or the individual.

If a person stole from you, would you choose destruction or blessings?